Mr. Willem van der Geest, Chief of the Development Strategy and Policy Branch of the Development Policy and Analysis Division in DESA introduced the report that provides an overview of the economic, social and environmental challenges we are facing. The report noted, with respect to economic challenges, that the need for more effective international policy coordination has become an imperative against the backdrop of a fragile recovery of the global economy and various downside risks. In regard to the social challenges the report noted that reducing inequality is at the core of a new ‘International Economic Order’. Lastly, the report noted in environmental challenges that an integrated vision that includes the social, economic, environmental and governance components of urbanization is required.

Next, Mr John Wilmoth, Director Population Division, Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) noted three critical points. First, it is important to maintain the momentum and widespread support for including migrants, migration and mobility in the post-2015 development agenda. Second, it is imperative to promote peaceful societies and facilitate safe and orderly migration. Third, greater efforts are required to ensure that data on migration and its impact on development are collected, analysed and used for effective policy-making.

The representative of Bolivia on behalf of the Group of 77 and China commenced the general discussion by noting that the nexus between migration and development must be addressed comprehensibly and include a cultural and human perspective. They also suggested that the international community should explore a legally binding convention on migration and development to improve the governance of international migration and to protect human rights of migrants. The Representative of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines on behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) stated the importance of globalization being inclusive and equitable. They also highlighted that their cultural sectors are significant contributors to job creation, economic development and their national pride and identities. The Representative of Philippines on behalf of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) stated that they envisage the free flow of services and the free flow of skilled labour, both of which have a deep impact on international migration and development in the region. Finally, the representative of Malawi on behalf of the African Group noted that the current process of globalization is generating unbalanced outcomes, both among and within countries. Malawi called on the international community to assist in enhancing regional and international cooperation for research and technological development.

Meeting Title: 22^nd and 23^rd meeting of the Second Commitee: ‘Globalization and Interdependence [item 21]’
Date: 27 October 2014
Location: Conference Room 2, UN Headquarters, New York
Written by WIT Representative: Aslesha Dhillon

Edited by WIT Representative: Philip Bracey